THREE Wyre Forest parks have been named as some of the best in the country after scooping prestigious awards.

Broadwaters Park and Brinton Park, both in Kidderminster, and Queen Elizabeth II Gardens, in Bewdley, are among a record-breaking 1,797 UK parks and green spaces to recently receive a Green Flag Community Award - the mark of a quality park or green space.

The international award, now in its third decade, is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

While Brinton Park and the QEII Gardens are managed by Wyre Forest District Council, Broadwaters Park is maintained by the Friends of Broadwaters Park group - who have received this award for the last 11 years.

Mike Abraham, group chairman, said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award again.

"We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining Broadwaters Park to such a high standard. The hard work is worth the effort to achieve this accolade."

Councillor Juliet Smith, district council cabinet member for culture and leisure services, said: "We pride ourselves on the wealth and quality of our many parks and green spaces, which provide our residents with a wide variety of outdoor spaces to enjoy all year round."

Councillor Rebecca Vale, cabinet member for operational services, said: "We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining Brinton Park and QEII Gardens to such a high standard."

Paul Todd, international Green Flag Award scheme manager, added: "We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme.

"Each flag is a celebration of the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.

"The success of the scheme, especially in these challenging times, demonstrates just how much parks matter to people."